Free Proxy Server Tutorial_Creating a Private Proxy Node with an Old Computer

Hardcore operations that turn old computers into treasure

We may have a few dusty old computers on hand, and instead of selling them to scrap collectors for 50 bucks, why not transform them into aProxy servers online 24/7. Just need to prepare: old computer that can be turned on (5 years ago configuration is enough), network cable, U disk (more than 8G). The focus is on system selection - it is recommended to install Ubuntu Server version, good compatibility with old devices, tested 2012 Lenovo laptop can run smoothly.

Three steps to build the core of the agency service

Step 1: System initialization
We recommend you to use Rufus tool to make system boot disk, and remember to check the OpenSSH service when installing. After the installation is complete, pass thesudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -yUpdate your system, this step prevents errors in subsequent software installations.

Step 2: Agent Software Selection
Select the tool according to the usage scenario:

Taking TinyProxy as an example, execute thesudo apt install tinyproxyAfter installation, modify the configuration file/etc/tinyproxy.confThe Allow field in is your device IP segment.

Step 3: Network Penetration Program
If it's home broadband, you need to set the router settings in theport mapping(usually located in NAT settings). Mapping port 8888 of the old computer's intranet IP to a public port, telecom users are advised to avoid sensitive ports such as 80/443.

Double guarantee to improve agent quality

The biggest problem with self-built agents isIP StabilityThis is the first time I've done this. Here's a tricky solution: get a quality proxy through ipipgo's API interface, and use the old computer to do secondary forwarding. The specific operation is added to the script:

curl -x http://ipipgo-proxy-endpoint:port your_target_url

This utilizes the computing resources of your own device and combines with ipipgo's residential IP pool covering 240+ countries and regions, with a measured response rate increase of 60% or more.

Guide to avoiding pitfalls and optimizing performance

Common rollover site treatment options:
1. Connection timeout: Check firewall settingssudo ufw allow 8888
2. Flow anomalies: Install vnstat monitoringsudo apt install vnstat
3. Equipment crash: Disable the graphical interfacesudo systemctl set-default multi-user.target

Advanced players can setTimed Reboot Policy::
sudo crontab -eincrease0 4 /sbin/reboot
Keep devices in tip-top shape with an automatic reboot at 4 a.m. every day.

QA High Frequency Questions Collection

Q: Do old computers need to be on all the time?
A: It is recommended to use with smart socket, remote control the power on and off through cell phone APP, and then start it when needed.

Q: How to choose between self-built proxy and ipipgo service?
A: Local devices are suitable for fixed locations, ipipgo's 90 million+ residential IPs are more suitable for scenarios that require multi-region switching, and the two can be used in combination.

Q: How to detect whether the agent is effective?
A: Terminal implementationcurl -x your proxy IP:port http://ipinfo.io/ip
Displaying a non-native IP means success.

With this solution, older computers typically have a CPU usage of no more than 15% and power consumption equivalent to a desk lamp. When higher-order proxy services are needed, ipipgo's full protocol support and dynamic static IP switching can complement professional-grade solutions. Especially when country-specific IPs are required, its worldwide node resources can save a lot of debugging time.